Collaboration & Creation: The Opportunities and Rewards of Delivering Projects Across Europe14 March 2025
In recent years, MCA has expanded its reach across Europe, working on projects in countries including the UK, Norway, Germany, Switzerland, and Spain. This international expansion has brought challenges, but as Associate Architect Marian Dinneen highlights, the opportunities and rewards far outweigh them.
Since 2022, Marian has been involved in the early design stages and permitting/planning processes for several large-scale critical infrastructure projects in Germany and the UK.
“These projects are fast-paced and demand the careful synthesis of multiple factors - site-specific constraints, local and regional regulations, the size and scale of the building typology, and, importantly, integrating and respecting the project’s context.”
The viability of these projects often hinges on securing the necessary building permits and planning approvals. Authorities require a clear vision of how the building will integrate into the site, what benefits it brings to the surrounding area, and the overall amenity - be it visual (ensuring aesthetic appeal) or ecological (contributing to biodiversity).
The Role of Architects in Adding Value
One of the key areas where architects add significant value is in navigating this complex approval process. This challenge has been met successfully by working in partnership with local architects. And therein lies one of the most rewarding aspects of international work.
Partnership meeting the Challenge of new Regulatory Environments
When working in a new region, adapting to the local permitting requirements was a challenge. Different regions have their own expectations for the level of detail needed in a development application, and this becomes even more evident in the environmental permitting process.
“We had worked through the process of preparing info for and reviewing Environmental Impact Reports as part of Strategic Infrastructure projects in Ireland – but in Germany the same European directives have been interpreted differently”.
A BImSchG (Bundes-Immissionsschutzgesetz) permit application is required for a business facility which could have an impact on air quality, noise or water pollution.
“By working closely with our local partners, we successfully navigated the BImSchG permit process—collaborating with specialists, integrating their recommendations into our design, and proactively addressing potential environmental risks. The end result is a facility that not only meets all regulatory requirements, but also operates responsibly, minimizes environmental impact, and contributes positively to its surroundings.”
The Power of Partnership
Collaborating with other architecture practices presents a tremendous opportunity for professional growth and learning. While working with new teams requires adapting to different workflows, cultural nuances, personalities, and communication styles, it ultimately fosters a collegiate atmosphere built on mutual respect. Each party brings unique skills and expertise to the table, leading to a more comprehensive and innovative design outcome.
From a design perspective, the architectural response is richer and more informed. From a compliance standpoint, collaboration with local architects is hugely valuable.
“On a personal level, working closely with architects from different regions is an incredibly rewarding experience. The exchange of knowledge, insights, and ways of thinking helps shape professional development and leaves a lasting impact throughout one’s career.
Positive Approach
During a recent Data Centre project in Germany, Marian worked in partnership with local architects to develop a design that integrated German regulations with the building’s specialised technical requirements. Her collegial and respectful approach not only ensured a successful design outcome but also embodied MCA’s commitment to teamwork and knowledge sharing.
Meeting Challenges through Partnership
On a recent large-scale project in England, where Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is a key requirement, the challenge of integrating habitats and green spaces within a constrained site plan was a driver of the design development. Collaborating closely with local partners, Marian gained valuable insights into regulatory expectations in the UK0. Drawing on international experience in Germany—where green and living walls are a requirement — Marian could quickly present options for vertical green wall systems to enhance greenery and create potential habitats. The result is a lush, vibrant façade that not only meets statutory requirements but also adds unique character and enriches its surroundings.
A Greater Collective Impact
“Working in partnership allows architects to achieve more together than they could individually. It leads to stronger designs, successful permit applications, comprehensive documentation, and, ultimately, satisfied clients.
In an increasingly interconnected world, embracing international collaboration is not just beneficial - it’s essential for delivering impactful and sustainable architectural solutions.”
Better is our blueprint.